Nose Augmentation (Rhinoplasty)

Change the size of the nose
Adjust the shape of the nose
Correct a birth defect or injury
Improve breathing

Types of Rhinoplasty

There are two main types of rhinoplasty:

Closed rhinoplasty: The incisions are made inside the nostrils, so there are no visible scars. This is the most common type of rhinoplasty.
Open rhinoplasty: An incision is made across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils) in addition to the incisions inside the nostrils. This provides the surgeon with more access to the nasal structures, which allows for more complex procedures.

Illustration of incisional and suture blepharoplasty techniques Visual representation of the steps involved in incisional and suture blepharoplasty procedures Detailed explanation of incisional and suture blepharoplasty techniques

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Materials Used in Rhinoplasty

There are several materials that can be used to augment the nose, including:

Silicone: Silicone is the most common type of implant material. It is soft, flexible, and has a long-term safety record.
Cartilage: Cartilage can be taken from the patient’s own ears, septum (the cartilage that separates the nostrils), or ribs. This is a good option for patients who want a natural-looking result or who have thin skin.
Allografts: Allografts are grafts of tissue from a deceased donor. They are typically used for patients who need a large amount of tissue or who have had previous surgeries that have damaged their own cartilage.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

The rhinoplasty procedure typically takes 1-3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Consultation: The first step is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. The surgeon will examine your nose and medical history and recommend a treatment plan.
Anesthesia: Before the surgery, you will be given anesthesia to numb the area and keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Incisions: The surgeon will make incisions inside the nostrils or across the columella, depending on the type of rhinoplasty being performed.
Reshaping the nose: The surgeon will then reshape the nasal bones and cartilage using a variety of techniques. This may involve removing or adding tissue, or repositioning the bones and cartilage.
Closing the incisions: Once the nose has been reshaped, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures.

Recovery from Rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, you will need to wear a splint on your nose for a week or two. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity and blowing your nose for several weeks. Most people are able to return to work and their normal activities within a week or two.

Risks and Complications of Rhinoplasty

As with any surgery, there are some risks and complications associated with rhinoplasty. These include:

Bleeding
Infection
Bruising and swelling
Numbness in the nose
Difficulty breathing
Revision surgery: In some cases, patients may need additional surgery to correct problems with the results of their initial rhinoplasty.

Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

It is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing rhinoplasty. You should also ask to see before-and-after photos of the surgeon’s work.

Cost of Rhinoplasty

The cost of rhinoplasty varies depending on the surgeon’s experience, the complexity of the procedure, and the geographic location. In the United States, the average cost of rhinoplasty is $5,483.

Is Rhinoplasty Right for You?

If you are considering rhinoplasty, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. The surgeon can help you decide if rhinoplasty is right for you and can develop a treatment plan to achieve your desired results.